Good morning.

Well here I am shoving things into suitcases and briefcases as I get ready to leave for the airport. Boy have times changed. Last year I was worried that I had enough notebooks and business cards, this year I'm wrangling a laptop, iPod and digital camera. Travelling light is an oxymoron in business. 

From what I hear, people will really be making the most of peer networking opportunities this week at the show. Whether it is organized chats or a "let's catch up in the hotel lounge" I see an extra effort to reach out.

One of the best things about trade shows, something we take for granted, is the chance to catch up with colleagues that we may deal with every day by phone or email, but see only at trade shows. That "face time" is invaluable. The Internet certainly has made the world smaller. With email I can follow up with international show attendees as easily as I follow up with colleagues in the states.  But without trade shows I would never get to see those friendly faces.

These relationships, and the gatherings where we exchange stories, are really the cherry on top of the trade show sundae. Sure we go there to see new products and identify trends but we also get as much out of catching up with our industry friends.

I can't tell you how many times I have gotten story ideas or great resources from a casual conversation in the Press Room or cafeteria. My favorite question- What are you seeing? I love to hear what people say and I track trends by tallying up similar responses.

If you don't already make it a habit, ask your colleagues what is working for them- it could be a class, a way to handle a staffing issue, a great designer. And, share your success stories. Retailers should especially be exchanging ideas for classes, demos and displays with store owners from other parts of the country. Spread the good ideas around!

I'm looking forward to seeing you at the show and if I do... be prepared because I'm going to ask, What are you seeing? Safe journey-Beth